I did read Julie and Julia, so I have a general idea of how they work. I don't think I will try out all the teaching ideas that have been popular through the ages, but I think I will go with the book title idea. I will write this blog about the leadership ideas I am learning about as I go through my school day and attending college at night.
Yesterday in class we discussed the importance of principals walking through and being present in the building. Do you mind guests and/or interruptions during your classes? I really don't mind visitors in my classroom. If the principal pops in occasionally it really becomes a natural part of the day. I have had an elevator in my class for the last few years and it provides an opportunity to teach the children about being polite, holding a door for someone, and greeting a guest. It is usually not a problem or a distraction after a few weeks.
As we discussed it in class, I think the important part is to let the teachers know you are coming by to see how things are going, not to critique them, or judge them, but to be a visible part of the educational community. It would give a principal the opportunity to see the students learning and the teacher teaching. Be sure that teachers understand you have been a teacher and understand that occasionally you might come in at a transition time, during a test, the dreaded "free choice", "centers", or a "hands-on" learning activity.
The visible principal walking through the building not only provides a sense of leadership on their part, but a layer of safety for everyone involved. You will know what is going on in your building. And, if you read the news these days, you know that it is very important to know what is happening in your building. Most teachers appreciate knowing the principal will have their back if anything is every said about their classroom, teaching style, or methods.
“Nowadays anyone with a crap laptop and an Internet connection can sound their barbaric yawp, whatever it may be.”
― Julie Powell, Julie and Julia: My Year of Cooking Dangerously
